Ola! Welcome to my Dartmouth journey. I'm Adrian, a '25 from Harare, Zimbabwe. With an insatiable thirst for investing, finance, and nature, I'm excited to dive into a major that combines all four passions—perhaps a modified economics major? The possibilities are endless! When I'm not tackling problem sets or immersed in "Things Fall Apart," I'm out and about on campus, discovering hidden gems and capturing countless memories on my phone. Join me as I embark on this incredible adventure!
Academic Program
Economics and African and African American Studies
This was a course that exceeded my expectations and left an enduring impression, serving as an important introduction to the captivating world of calculus. As someone initially hesitant about delving into this mathematical realm, I was pleasantly surprised by the immense value and personal growth it offered. Through thought-provoking problem sets and engaging class discussions, I honed my critical thinking skills and gained a deep appreciation for the beauty and practicality of mathematical concepts within the calculus framework. The supportive community of dedicated instructors and enthusiastic classmates played a vital role in my journey, providing guidance and encouragement as I navigated this new academic terrain. Math 8 not only ignited my passion for analytical thinking but also equipped me with the tools to apply mathematical principles in real-world scenarios.
ECON 1 became a truly transformative and enlightening experience within my academic journey, resonating deeply as a student with roots in Zimbabwe, a country navigating its path in the realm of development. This course fully immersed me in the intricate world of resource utilization, income distribution, and the intricate interplay between economics and society, allowing me to witness its direct relevance to the economic landscape of my beloved home country. Through its comprehensive exploration of topics such as industrial organization, labor economics, and international trade, I gained invaluable insights into the unique challenges and opportunities that Zimbabwe and similar economies face. This course not only served as an eye-opening introduction to the captivating field of economics but also reignited and fortified my unwavering commitment to addressing the pressing issues that confront my nation and the broader global community. It has instilled in me an unyielding determination to contribute to positive change and foster sustainable development in Zimbabwe and beyond, serving as a guiding light in my pursuit of economic transformation and social progress.
This course took me on a captivating and deeply personal journey as someone of African heritage. It explored the historical mapping of race onto Africa, allowing me to engage with the arguments of historians and gain profound insights into the complexities of racial identity. Analyzing motion pictures as primary sources, I discovered the influential role of cinema in perpetuating racial othering and reinforcing colonial agendas. This transformative course challenged my preconceptions, deepening my understanding of the intersection between race, Africa, and representation. Equipped with the tools to critically analyze and challenge stereotypes, I feel empowered to contribute to inclusive dialogue and promote understanding in our shared human experience.
SummerOff-Term (Hanover, NH)
For my freshman summer, I made the deliberate choice to take a well-deserved break in Hanover. After a rigorous academic year filled with learning and growth, I felt the need to recharge and rejuvenate before diving into the next chapter of my academic career. It was a time for self-care, reflection, and exploration. I embraced the opportunity to indulge in personal hobbies, spend quality time with loved ones, and embark on new adventures.
Beyond the surface, this course delved into Africa's connections to diverse African Diasporas and the notion of mobility, providing a deeper understanding of the continent. Throughout the course, we critically examined the production and contestation of African cultural, racial, and political identities. The moment of independence for many African nation-states served as a pivotal point, allowing us to analyze economics, race, politics, and artistic expressions. Concepts like "tradition" and "modernity" were thoroughly explored, uncovering representations of Africa and the complexities of commodification. Witnessing the range of cultural and political responses was inspiring. The course not only broadened my understanding of Africa's rich tapestry but also ignited my passion for African studies. It empowered me with a critical lens to analyze and contribute to ongoing conversations surrounding Africa's narratives and its global significance.
AAAS 87.09, "African Popular Culture," was a captivating and deeply personal journey that immersed me in the vibrant world of African popular cultures. This course offered a comprehensive exploration of cultural, economic, and philosophical aspects, all within a global socio-historical framework. From the beats of Ghanaian music to the narratives of Nigerian literature and the rhythm of South African dance, I was captivated by the diverse and expressive works that shape African identities. Engaging in lively discussions and delving into the influential works of artists like Fela Kuti, I gained a profound understanding of how these creative mediums contribute to the production and contestation of Africanness. The course fostered a welcoming and inclusive environment, bringing together students from different backgrounds and inspiring meaningful conversations. It ignited my passion for uncovering the intricacies of cultures and left me with a deep appreciation for the transformative power of African popular cultures. This course not only expanded my knowledge but also sparked a personal connection to my heritage and strengthened my commitment to celebrating and sharing the richness of African cultures with the world.
This course opened my eyes to a whole new perspective on the challenges faced by developing countries, offering a profound understanding of the global economic landscape. As someone intimately familiar with the realities of a developing country, ECON 24 resonated deeply with my personal experiences. It delved into the underlying reasons behind pervasive issues like extreme poverty, hunger, limited access to education, gender inequality, environmental degradation, high fertility rates, and child labor that afflict many developing nations. Through the lens of economic analysis, I gained invaluable insights into the complex factors that shape decision-making processes in these contexts, including the roles of markets, organizations, policies, and institutions. This course not only expanded my knowledge of development economics, but it also fueled my sense of purpose and determination to contribute to positive change. It reinforced my belief in the potential for transformative solutions and empowered me to actively work towards creating a better future for developing countries like Zimbabwe and their people.
SummerOff-Term (Harare, Zimbabwe)
As an international student, my sophomore summer presented an exciting opportunity to return to my home country, Zimbabwe, and engage in a remarkable social impact project I designed called JEKA. This initiative was made possible through the renowned Davis Projects for Peace Program, generously sponsored by the Dickey Center for International Understanding. JEKA specifically focused on addressing the pressing issue of substance use and abuse among Zimbabwe's youth, aiming to empower them with the necessary skills and knowledge to create a brighter future for themselves and their communities. Throughout the summer, we provided comprehensive support by equipping young individuals with essential 21st-century skills such as computer programming and entrepreneurship. Additionally, we facilitated educational sessions that highlighted the adverse consequences of substance use and misuse. Witnessing the personal growth and transformation of the participants was incredibly rewarding, and I was grateful for the invaluable support and resources provided by Dartmouth. This experience solidified my belief in the transformative power of grassroots initiatives and community-driven projects. I left the summer with a strengthened commitment to making a lasting impact, armed with the knowledge that collective efforts can bring about positive change.
Why Africa Week Will Stay With Me After I Graduate
When I look back on my time at Dartmouth, and it is hard to believe I will be graduating in just two weeks, I know that Africa Week will always stand out as one of the moments when this campus felt most alive, most joyful, and most like home.
What is Africa Week?
Africa Week is an annual celebration organized by the Dartmouth African Students Association (DASA) each spring. It features a week-long series of events designed to honor the incredible diversity of the African continent and its diaspora. The week is about culture, community, and legacy. Just as important, it is about joy. For students of African descent, it offers a chance to share where we come from. For the entire Dartmouth community, it provides an opportunity to learn, connect, and celebrate together.
Students Interacting During the Africa Week Gala
Africa Week also connects to a broader history. It honors Africa Day, formerly known as African Freedom Day and later African Liberation Day, which commemorates the founding of the Organization of African Unity on May 25, 1963, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. This was a pivotal moment in the fight for decolonization and pan-African solidarity. It serves as a reminder of the continent's journey toward unity, liberation, and shared progress. Here at Dartmouth, that same spirit of unity and pride is woven throughout the week.
Each year, DASA selects a theme that reflects how we, Africans, see ourselves and how we want to share our cultures with the wider Dartmouth community. This year's theme was Ìwé Ìfé: A Love Letter to Our Continent. From start to finish, the week truly embodied that message.
This Year's Africa Week: Spring 2025
We kicked off on Sunday afternoon with the Opening Ceremony at Occom Commons. The room was filled with the rich aromas of home-cooked food because if you are African or have met an African, you know where we gather, food is always involved. Dishes ranged from jollof rice and fried plantains to hearty stews and rice dishes. Students had prepared food from their home countries, and the spread was incredible. Plates were piled high as everyone lingered around the tables, talking, laughing, and savoring each bite. Alongside the food, several students gave short presentations about the projects, nonprofits, research, and ventures they are leading that connect to the continent. It was inspiring to hear about the breadth of Africa-centered work being done in the community. I left that afternoon reminded that Africa Week is not only about celebration but also about vision and impact.
Karaoke and Spoken Word Night
On Monday night, the energy shifted to One Wheelock for Karaoke and Spoken Word Night. The vibe in the room was electric. Some students brought the crowd to its feet singing Afrobeats hits like Tems' "Burning" and Burna Boy's "For My Hand." Others performed soulful R&B ballads, while several brave and gifted poets shared moving original pieces. Between performances, people grabbed plates of Caribbean dishes from The Karibbean, which included Jamaican patties, jerk chicken, rice and beans, and samosas. Everyone clapped for their friends and cheered loudly after every act. What stood out to me most was that it did not matter whether someone was a seasoned performer or singing off-key. The entire room celebrated them.
Sip and Paint Event From Last Year's Africa Week
Art of Our Continent Sip and Paint Event
Midweek, we gathered in the Shabazz Mural Room for Arts of Our Continent, an African iconography sip and paint event. Afro-soul music played in the background while students painted, tie-dyed shirts, and enjoyed good food and even better company. The room had a creative, collaborative energy. Students moved between tables, admiring each other's work and chatting with friends. It was a relaxed space where people could express themselves freely and connect across backgrounds.
Scenes from last year's Africa Week Barbecue and Field Games, where students enjoyed football, sack races, tug of war, and plenty of braai and suya fresh off the grill.
Champions of Our Continent Barbecue
By Friday, the excitement had reached a new level. The Champions of Our Continent Barbecue on the Shabazz Lawn drew a big crowd. Friends spread out on the grass, plates piled high with barbecue, as students from across campus gathered to hang out and enjoy the sunny afternoon. Later, everyone headed to Garipay Fields for a football match. The game featured East and Southern Africa in white jerseys versus West, North, and Central Africa in black. Students showed up proudly representing their regions. The match was competitive and fun. Players of all skill levels joined in, while others coached, refereed, or cheered from the sidelines. The atmosphere was one of friendly rivalry and shared pride.
African Students sharing a table in Collis Common Ground at the 2025 Africa Week Gala
The Gala
Finally, Saturday night arrived. We gathered for the Gala, A Night of Love and Legacy, at Collis Common Ground. This is the event everyone talks about all year, and this year's Gala did not disappoint. Collis was beautifully transformed with lights, decorations, and music. Students arrived in stunning cultural attire and formal wear, taking photos with friends as they entered. The program featured an incredible lineup of performances. Students sang, danced, performed spoken word, and showcased both traditional and contemporary cultural pieces. The energy in the room was contagious. Each performance felt like a personal love letter to heritage and community. I remember sitting with my friends, feeling proud of what this week represented and deeply moved by how much heart and effort had gone into it. The night ended with everyone dancing to Afrobeats, celebrating not only our cultures but also the friendships we had built.
To Prospective Students:
Me (far right) and my friend Justine (middle) at the 2025 Africa Week Gala
For me, Africa Week was a beautiful way to close out my time at Dartmouth. It reminded me that even though sometimes academics and daily routines matter in college, what matters most are the communities we create and the spaces where we can be our full selves. In a place like Dartmouth, where students come from every corner of the world, Africa Week is one of those spaces. It is a week where we see each other, where we celebrate one another, and where we remember that home is not just a place. It is people, it is pride, and it is shared joy.
To any prospective student reading this, know that at Dartmouth you will find spaces like this, where your voice matters, where your culture is celebrated, and where community is real. As I prepare to graduate, I know that Africa Week, and the friendships and memories it created, will stay with me long after I leave Hanover. I already look forward to returning as an alum to see how future students will continue to grow this beautiful tradition.
If you want to learn more beyond what this post covers, feel free to explore the following resource:
